Device-Switching and Internet Access: Enablers of Television Viewing During Load Shedding in Gauteng.

This 2023 study examines how urban, middle-class residents in Gauteng, South Africa adapt their TV viewing habits during load shedding, using survey data from 330 participants and follow-up interviews. The findings show that access to mobile devices, reliable internet, and backup power matters more...

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Detalles Bibliográficos
Publicado en:Communicatio: South African Journal for Communication Theory & Research Vol. 51; no. 1/2; pp. 18 - 40
Autor principal: Viljoen, Aimee
Formato: Artículo
Publicado: Taylor & Francis Ltd Mar-Jun2025
Materias:
Acceso en línea:Ver este registro en EBSCOhost
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        atl: Device-Switching and Internet Access: Enablers of Television Viewing During Load Shedding in Gauteng.
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        au: Viljoen, Aimee
        affil: University of Johannesburg, South Africa
      su:
        Internet access
        Television viewing
        Electrical load shedding
        Electric power failures
        Gauteng (South Africa)
      sug:
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          Gauteng (South Africa)
          Internet access
          Television viewing
          Electrical load shedding
          Electric power failures
      keyword:
        COVID-19
        DStv
        load shedding
        Netflix
        OTT TV
        power outage
        solar power
        television
        UPS
      ab: This 2023 study examines how urban, middle-class residents in Gauteng, South Africa adapt their TV viewing habits during load shedding, using survey data from 330 participants and follow-up interviews. The findings show that access to mobile devices, reliable internet, and backup power matters more than electricity alone. While traditional TV is being disrupted, many people use smartphones, mobile data, UPS-powered Wi-Fi, or pre-downloaded content, favouring platforms like Netflix, YouTube, and Showmax for their offline and mobile-friendly features. Yet, about a quarter cannot watch TV during power outages due to data costs or a lack of power backups. The study focuses on urban participants, noting limitations and calling for further research into rural and low-income communities. It urges the implementation of affordable internet and power solutions to ensure equitable media access.
      pubtype: Academic Journal
      doctype: Article
      src: R
    language: English
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